The Specials | Vibepedia

1. Early Life & Influences
2. Career & Discography
3. Legacy & Influence
4. Cultural Impact
5. Related Topics

The Specials are a British 2 Tone ska revival band that formed in Coventry in 1977. They are known for their eclectic blend of ska, punk, and reggae styles, as well as their energetic live performances. The band's original lineup included Jerry Dammers (keyboards), Horace Panter (bass), Lynval Golding (guitar), Neville Staple (vocals, percussion), Roddy Radiation (guitar), John Bradbury (drums), and Terry Hall (vocals). The Specials were a key part of the 2 Tone movement, which also included bands like The Selecter and Madness. The band's music was heavily influenced by Prince Buster and The Skatalites, and they have been cited as an influence by bands like No Doubt and Sublime.

The Specials' early sound was characterized by their blend of ska rhythms, punk energy, and reggae influences. They were one of the first bands to popularize the 2 Tone sound, which was a fusion of ska, punk, and reggae styles. The band's debut single, Gangsters, was released in 1979 and became a hit in the UK. This was followed by their debut album, The Specials, which was released in 1979 and featured the hit singles Rudy, A Message to You and Nite Klub. The album was produced by Elvis Costello and was a critical and commercial success.

The Specials' second album, More Specials, was released in 1980 and featured the hit singles Rat Race and Stereotype. The album was more experimental than their debut and featured a range of guest musicians, including Ian Dury and Dave Vanian. The band's music was heavily influenced by Jamaican ska and reggae, and they have been credited with helping to popularize these genres in the UK. The Specials have also been cited as an influence by bands like The Beat and General Public.

The Specials have had a significant influence on the music industry, and their music has been covered by a range of artists, including No Doubt and Sublime. The band's energetic live performances have also been widely praised, and they have been named as one of the greatest live bands of all time by NME. The Specials have undergone several lineup changes over the years, but the original members have reunited on several occasions to perform and record new music. In 2008, the band released a new album, Encore, which featured a range of new material and was produced by Tore Johansson.

The Specials' legacy continues to be felt in the music industry, and they remain one of the most influential and beloved bands of the 2 Tone era. The band's music has been featured in a range of films and TV shows, including This Is England and Shameless. The Specials have also been credited with helping to launch the career of Suggs, who went on to form Madness and become one of the most successful artists of the 1980s.

Year

1977

Origin

Coventry, England

Category

music

Type

artist